Note: This is not quite a re-post of the subject discussed a short while ago here, so I decided on a new subject.

Holding temperature, coffee/water ratio and brew time constant, I've been having consistency issues with my FP. I'm not actually sure if it is the grinder, but considering the relative if not absolute precision (scale, including measurement of water in grams not volume, thermometer readouts of temperature, timer) of all the other variables, I am inclined to at least partially blame the grinder. The issue I have is with unpleasant amounts of bitterness.

The problem is recent, although I may be noticing it more since I migrated from CCD/FP/AP to mostly FP with some AP (CCD broke). In any case, I am getting the feeling that the FP grind is more flaky than before. The only real test so far is reserving some of the grinds on paper. Huge inconsistencies, with too many fines; the amount of fines annoyingly seems to also vary between grinds. This is a CBM-18 grinder and I'm quite sure it was more consistent when new.

So: I am looking for a proper FP grinder. Not something that will 'do,' but something that will hopefully be far more consistent and (hopefully longer lasting) than my current CBM-18. Electrical or hand grinders would both be a-OK, I'm interested in something that will last more than a year or two.

You can get a refurbished Virtuoso from Baratza for I *think* $199..maybe less $175. They are out of refurbs right now but keep checking this page to see when they have more available: Click Here (www.baratza.com)

They don't ship to Canada, unfortunately. I thought earlier that wouldn't be a problem -- just go down to my friendly neighbourhood border town and pick it up, no big deal. However, Baratza grinders are not made in a NAFTA country, so by the time I calculate gas + tax + duty, it's not a useful discount over $240 I can get a new Virtuoso w/ Preciso burrs.

Since I am guessing you have the model, I am wondering how you are finding the consistency of the grind and its long-term performance -- specifically, any issues with losing calibration over time?

I can't personally comment on the long-term consistency of the grind since I've only had mine since August (I bought the Preciso which features an additional micro-adjustment for making espresso, otherwise the grinder is the same). However the Virtuoso is highly regarded by countless members here as being a top-notch grinder for FP and drip. Baratza also has excellent customer service, so if there would be issues later down the line I'm sure they would be able to get them sorted out in a quick and friendly manner.

I used to sell Baratza rerurbished grinders for Canada but unfortunately that was phased out at the end of April..

I thought earlier that wouldn't be a problem -- just go down to my friendly neighbourhood border town and pick it up, no big deal. However, Baratza grinders are not made in a NAFTA country, so by the time I calculate gas + tax + duty, it's not a useful discount over $240 I can get a new Virtuoso w/ Preciso burrs.

Actually $249.00 at the Greenbeanery, but you also get an additional $30.00 coffee credit so that's a great deal! {;-)

Maybe it's the Virtuoso with the Preciso burrs. I've had the latest version of the Preciso (obviously with the Preciso burrs) for over 6 month . Just can't say enough good things about it. Used three times a day, every day. Consistent grinds all the time. Take care!

Maybe it's the Virtuoso with the Preciso burrs. I've had the latest version of the Preciso (obviously with the Preciso burrs) for over 6 month . Just can't say enough good things about it. Used three times a day, every day. Consistent grinds all the time. Take care!

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